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Join the thousands of visitors that know about one of Saratoga County’s best kept secrets - whitewater rafting on the Sacandaga River. 

 

With a Class II and III rating, the Sacandaga River is the perfect adventure for the entire family, young and old. Plus, as the most commercially rafted river in the area, it is easy for families and groups to experience their first whitewater rafting trip. The Sacandaga River is also open to the public and welcomes visitors who are able to tame the rapids on their own.

 

Visitors do not need any experience or any special gear to make a trip down the river. There are a number of commercial outfits in the area to choose from, which provide all the equipment needed to go whitewater rafting, as well as licensed and certified guides. If something is forgotten, visitors can usually purchase or rent anything that is not included in their whitewater rafting package.

 

One advantage of the Sacandaga is that it is not limited to the traditional whitewater rafting season, because the water flow is controlled by a dam on the Great Sacandaga Lake. Visitors can find guided adventures on the river from Memorial Day through Columbus Day.   The water flow is the same all day, every day and is the only continuous release in the area. With a minimum of 8 hours and up to 12 to 15 hours of rapids, visitors won’t be limited to “high” times to get their thrill. The river is ready when its guests are. 

 

With a three and a half mile stretch at the confluence of the Hudson River, a straight trip down the river will take just under an hour and a half. If visitors want to get the most out of their adventure and have the most fun, they can stop at a flat for a picnic, a nice float, swim or any other water activity and than continue on their journey. Riding the Sacandaga is a refreshing way to spend the day, with three foot waves, warm water and beautiful scenery of the southern Adirondack Mountains.

 

Another advantage of Saratoga whitewater rafting, is that the Sacandaga is mild enough to relax on a tube, cruise on a sit-on-top kayak or just swim. Whitewater rafting the Sacandaga is an “experience that is appropriate for almost everyone…not limited to anyone and not horribly dangerous,” says John Duncan who operates the Sacandaga Outdoor Center in Hadley, NY. Every year John and his staff guide thousands of couples, families and groups down the river.